Repatriation - Worldwide or Within New Zealand

Repatriation is returning home of the body, remains or ashes of someone who has died outside of their country or their normal place of residence. This can be national or international. In addition to the normal processes involved in a funeral, there are mandatory requirements to comply with New Zealand or another countries when sending or receiving remains or ashes.

INTERNATIONAL - Transportation of the CasketIn the case of a full body repatriation a death certificate, evidence that the body does not have a notifiable disease, a certificate of embalming, and the necessary export and import clearance for New Zealand and/or the country of destination.The casket be hermetically sealed. This requirement differs from country to country. We will advise you of current requirements.Because of the required processes, a repatriation to or from New Zealand can take up to 10 working days. It is can be an expensive and time consuming process. For who have died overseas and wish to be repatriated to New Zealand, most of the cost can often be covered by their travel insurance policy. Before proceeding, check with the travel insurance provider.

DOMESTIC REPATRIATION - Transportation of the CasketInterisland repatriations are normally done by air transport with a prerequisite that the body be embalmed in most cases the casket will be consigned from funeral director to funeral director.Families can also transport the casket themselves via road and ferry.

TRANSPORTING ASHES - international and domesticAshes can be taken by a family member or friend. If travelling by air you do have the option of taking them yourself as a carry-on item however you will require a Certificate of Cremation New Zealand Post will not accept ashes from the general public for courier this, must be done by a funeral director as there is documentation that is required.If you wish to send them by courier, sending from funeral director to funeral director is the recommended method. The reason being, courier companies require someone to be present and willing to sign for and accept the ashes upon delivery.For more information or advice please contact us.